The Commerce Department said June retail sales posted their steepest drop in nearly two years compared to May. Yet, at the same time, consumers said they're more optimistic about the economy and their pocketbooks. Jill Barshay sorts it out.

The Federal Trade Commission has been trying to block organic grocery chain Whole Foods from buying rival Wild Oats, and it may have the ammunition it needs from CEO John Mackey's fondness for online chatter. Sam Eaton reports.

After almost a decade of saggy performance, Levi Strauss is looking a lot more fit these days. And that's sparking speculation that the jeans maker could be in a position to go public again. Elizabeth Wynne Johnson goes behind the seams.

Tom Stemberg, founder of office-supply giant Staples, unveiled today a new venture capital fund. It will focus on retail start-ups that are just about the opposite of the type of store he pioneered. Steve Tripoli reports.